The first photo of Pope Francis after hospitalization
Photography, published by the Press Office of the Holy See, shows a sick 87-year-old popesitting in a wheelchair in a chapel adjacent to his room on the tenth floor of the hospital. Francis is dressed in a white cell and a purple stole, but there is no Piuski on his head, which rarely happens in official photos.
He can't see his face well – he looks in silence towards a straight altar, decorated with flowers. No smile, no joy – there is a reflection, focus and silence. You can see how tired and weakened, and his attitude speaks more than words.
Photo as a response to speculation
As the Vatican sources emphasize, the publication of this photo was needed to silence the circulating speculation about Franciszek's health. False reports appeared in social media that the Pope was connected to the oxygen apparatus and in a critical condition. Meanwhile, the Vatican ensures that its condition is stable and the treatment goes according to plan.
What's more, according to the press office of the Holy See, Franciszek concelebrated the mass in the morning with other priests. Despite fatigue and weakness He still participates in the life of the Church.
Despite the positive message from the Vatican, no specific date of leaving the Gemella clinic was given by the Pope.
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Holy See Press Office / Reuters
Pope Francis prays in the hospital chapel at the Gemelli clinic.
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Holy See Press Office / Reuters
The Holy Father staring at the altar, visibly weakened by the disease.
